25 Best Motivational Quotes from Stephen Hawking

Bestselling author, award-winning physicist and beloved Star Trek guest star Stephen Hawking died today at the age of 76. Prolific as both a writer and public figure, the late scientist made numerous wry remarks about the nature of life, science and the universe around us. Here are his 25 best quotes, IMHO:

“God is the name people give to the reason we are here.”

“God may exist, but science can explain the universe without the need for a creator.”

“However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at.”

“I am just a child who has never grown up. I still keep asking these ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions. Occasionally, I find an answer.”

“I believe alien life is quite common in the universe, although intelligent life is less so. Some say it has yet to appear on planet Earth.”

“I believe there are no questions that science can’t answer about a physical universe.”

“I have found far greater enthusiasm for science in America than here in Britain. There is more enthusiasm for everything in America.”

“I have noticed even people who claim everything is predestined, and that we can do nothing to change it, look before they cross the road.”

“In my opinion, there is no aspect of reality beyond the reach of the human mind.”

“Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.”

“Life would be tragic if it weren’t funny.”

“Many people find the universe confusing – it’s not.”

“People who boast about their I.Q. are losers.”

“People won’t have time for you if you are always angry or complaining.”

“Science can lift people out of poverty and cure disease. That, in turn, will reduce civil unrest.”

“Science is increasingly answering questions that used to be the province of religion.”

“Science is not only a disciple of reason but, also, one of romance and passion.”

“Scientists have become the bearers of the torch of discovery in our quest for knowledge.”

“The past, like the future, is indefinite and exists only as a spectrum of possibilities.”

“The universe is not indifferent to our existence – it depends on it.”

“There is no unique picture of reality.”

“There is nothing bigger or older than the universe.”

“We are just an advanced breed of monkeys on a minor planet of a very average star. But we can understand the Universe. That makes us something very special.”

“When one’s expectations are reduced to zero, one really appreciates everything one does have.”